Electric vehicles are taking the automotive world by storm. With plunging battery costs and expanding charging infrastructure, EVs provide an eco-friendly and high-tech alternative to gas-powered cars. Two popular electric models vying for buyers‘ attention are the Hyundai Kona EV and the Chevy Bolt EV. These small crossovers pack big value and 200+ mile ranges at relatively affordable prices.
But when comparing the Hyundai Kona Electric and Chevy Bolt EV side-by-side, which one has the edge? Let‘s take a deep dive into the specs, technology, driving dynamics and ownership experiences to name the superior small electric crossover.
Introducing the Contenders
The Hyundai Kona Electric debuted in South Korea and Europe in 2018 before reaching North America for model year 2019. As Hyundai‘s first fully electric crossover, the front-wheel drive Kona EV packs style, ample passenger and cargo room, and one of the longest EV ranges under $40k. Its 64 kWh battery enables a 258 mile range on a charge.
Taking on the Kona is the Chevy Bolt EV, introduced for 2017 as GM‘s first long-range, affordably priced electric car. Like the Kona, it is solely powered from a large battery pack, providing a competitive 259 mile maximum range from its 65 kWh lithium battery. It‘s a compact hatchback rather than a small crossover, giving it a lower, sleeker shape than the Kona.
While similarly sized and priced EVs with 200+ mile ranges, the Kona Electric and Chevy Bolt differ across several key areas:
Let‘s explore precisely how these two electric vehicle models compare.
Price and Incentives: Bolt Has a Big Advantage
Price can make a tremendous impact when comparing electric vehicles. MSRP, tax credits, incentives, and even state rebates can greatly influence the final out-of-pocket cost.
The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric starts at an MSRP of $34,000. The Chevy Bolt EV undercuts it with a $26,595 base MSRP. That $7,405 difference gives the Chevy a strong value advantage.
Incentives also favor the Bolt. The Inflation Reduction Act grants the Bolt EV a $7,500 federal tax credit through March 2032. Hyundai has sold over 200,000 qualifying electric vehicles in the United States, phasing out eligibility for the credit on 2023 Kona EVs. State and local credits may still apply.
Accounting for MSRP plus available incentives, the effective starting cost works out to:
- Hyundai Kona Electric: $34,000
- Chevy Bolt EV: $19,095
With a sub-$20k effective base cost, the Bolt offers unbeatable value as the cheapest long-range electric vehicle you can buy new from a dealership today. Passing those savings onto buyers should bolster Chevy sales.
Winner: Chevy Bolt
Driving Range and Efficiency: Kona Is More Efficient
Driving range and efficiency directly relate to battery capacity and energy usage. More miles from the same size battery demonstrates greater efficiency.
The Kona Electric is EPA rated for 258 miles of range on a full charge. The Chevy Bolt EV closely matches it with an official 259 mile maximum range. However, Hyundai appears conservative with its range ratings, as owners commonly report exceeding 270+ miles on a charge.
For rating and comparing electric vehicle efficiency, the EPA developed the mileage equivalent unit of MPGe: miles per gallon equivalent. This allows consumers to understand an EV‘s energy efficiency relative to a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle.
Here the Kona Electric rates 120 MPGe city/highway/combined. The Chevy Bolt earns an EPA rating of 118 MPGe city, 104 highway, and 110 combined. The Kona‘s 10 MPGe edge demonstrates meaningfully better real-world efficiency over the Bolt.
Delving deeper into their battery specs, the Kona Electric sports a 64 kWh battery pack while the Bolt gets by with a 65 kWh pack. More miles from modestly less battery capacity is the recipe behind the Kona‘s higher MPGe ratings.
Owners praise both models for meeting or exceeding their EPA estimated ranges in normal driving, giving them ample daily range and road trip capabilities. But the Kona Electric‘s greater efficiency gives it the win for electric driving range and MPGe economy.
Winner: Hyundai Kona Electric
Performance: Quickness Favors the Chevy
While not sports cars by any measure, electric vehicles provide strong acceleration thanks to instant torque from standstill. Let‘s examine the power specs behind the Bolt EV and Kona Electric.
Despite its larger, heavier body, the Hyundai Kona Electric delivers 201 horsepower to its front wheels. The lighter Chevy Bolt puts out 200 horsepower through its sole front-wheel powertrain. Similar power outputs for rivals of slightly differing sizes and weights.
Torque ratings are also tight: 291 lb-ft for the Kona and 266 lb-ft for the Bolt EV. Heavier models often produce higher torque to accelerate their extra mass.
In straight line acceleration, the Chevy Bolt zips to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds according to Motor Trend testing. For the Kona Electric, Car & Driver logged a manufacturer-estimated 7.6 seconds 0-60 mph time. So while close on peak output, the nimbler Bolt‘s greater thrust bests the Kona at the drag strip.
Handling and cornering ability go to the lower, wider Bolt as well. In Motor Trend figure eight evaluations, it posted a 28.0 second time, while the taller Kona managed 28.7 seconds according to Car & Driver data. Tighter turns showcase the Chevy‘s better balanced athleticism.
For their affordable price tags, both pack a punch accelerating from stops and adeptly passing slow traffic. But with quicker acceleration and livelier dynamics, the Chevy Bolt proves the more exciting performer for drivers wanting an extra kick in their daily commuter.
Winner: Chevy Bolt
Interior Space: More Passenger and Cargo Room in the Kona
While exterior dimensions are similar for these electric small crossovers, packaging and layout greatly impact the passenger and cargo space found inside.
The Kona Electric provides ample room for 5 passengers, with superior headroom and legroom than the Bolt EV. Taller riders in particular fit better in the Hyundai‘s back seat.
Cargo capacity behind the rear bench also favors the Hyundai. The Kona Electric provides 19.2 cubic feet of storage versus just 16.3 cubic feet in the Bolt EV. The Chevrolet‘s cargo hold is relatively shallow and sloped.
Folding the 60/40 split rear seats down opens up more room for hauling longer items. The Kona then swallows 45.8 cubic feet, while the Bolt expands to a maximum 56.6 cubic feet.
So for fitting passengers and their gear, the extra spacious Hyundai Kona better serves families or groups needing more elbow room and luggage capacity.
Winner: Hyundai Kona Electric
Design and Styling: Stand Out or Blend In?
Electric vehicle buyers generally fall into two styling camps: those wanting to stand out with distinctive looks signaling their high-tech ride, while others prefer slipping more subtly into the background. Which aesthetic makes the strongest design statement?
Featuring a contrasting gray skid plate, silver bumpers and hyper-modern pixel lights, the Kona Electric makes no apologies about its unconventional, futuristic looks. Love it or hate it, its funky shape attracts plenty of attention. Inside, available ambient lighting and striking color accents enhance its youthful vibe.
The Chevy Bolt adopts more familiar compact hatchback lines for less radical styling. Gently sloping lines, hidden rear door handles and an overall sleek, mono-volume shape promote aerodynamic efficiency over Stand out or blend in? Which aesthetic makes the strongest design statement?
Featuring a contrasting gray skid plate, silver bumpers and hyper-modern pixel lights, the Kona Electric makes no apologies about its unconventional, futuristic looks. Love it or hate it, its funky shape attracts plenty of attention. Inside, available ambient lighting and striking color accents enhance its youthful vibe.
The Chevy Bolt adopts more familiar compact hatchback lines for less radical styling. Gently sloping lines, hidden rear door handles and an overall sleek, mono-volume shape promote aerodynamic efficiency over visual excitement. Cabin decor falls conservative too, prioritizing intuitive controls over flair.
Choose the Kona if you‘re seeking cutting-edge, concept car-like transportation that might draw envious glances. Pick the Bolt for blending in as another well-equipped small car.
Winner: Tie. Comes down to personal taste.
Infotainment and Technology: Kona Packs More Features
Modern vehicles rely on screens and software to manage navigation, audio, climate and communications. How do these electric vehicles stack up for in-car technology?
The Hyundai Kona Electric impresses by making desirable infotainment and advanced safety technology standard. All models get an 8-inch touchscreen loaded with smartphone integration. Higher trims upgrade to a 10.25-inch widescreen display with navigation, premium audio and Blue Link connected services with 3 years of complimentary access.
Active safety suite essentials like automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert equip the Kona at no added cost. Adaptive cruise control, parking sensors and safe exit assist further elevate upper tier editions.
By comparison, the Bolt EV‘s standard 7-inch touchscreen seems dated next to Hyundai‘s widescreens. And core safety assists like blind spot and cross traffic alerts come bundled in a $495 Driver Confidence package, not included free. Upgrading to the larger 10.2-inch display with navigation tops $2,700 extra.
Both EVs offer identical Level 2 charging capabilities and available fast charging. But the Hyundai‘s bigger touchscreens and generous inclusion of advanced features supply greater everyday value.
Winner: Hyundai Kona Electric
Charging: Identical Capabilities But Bolt Has More Public Access
Charging an electric vehicle requires planning ahead to ensure adequate range for reaching destinations. We‘ll analyze home, public and road trip charging options for the Kona and Bolt.
Each vehicle accepts Level 2 charging at up to 7.2 kW. With the proper 240-volt equipment, both can fully recharge depleted batteries overnight in around 9-10 hours. This conveniently enables leaving home daily with a full "tank" after plugging in when parked for the evening.
For faster public DC fast charging, the Bolt EV and Kona Electric support charging up to 55 kW, adding roughly 90 miles of range per 30 minutes of charging. This allows topping up at sufficient speeds if needing to cover long distances with pit stops to specific high-speed stations. Up to 75 kW rates further reduce required charging times.
While their charging performance benchmarks closely, the Chevy Bolt enjoys a key infrastructure advantage: wider compatibility with public networks like Electrify America, EVgo and ChargePoint. The Kona is essentially limited to Electrify America‘s stations when traveling beyond home or work charging access.
Until Kona charging compatibility expands across networks, the Bolt EV‘s freedom to tap more charging locations improves recharging accessibility and convenience.
Winner: Chevy Bolt
Reliability and Ownership Costs: Strong Hyundai Warranty Provides Peace of Mind
Reliability and avoiding expensive repair bills are crucial aspects of total electric vehicle ownership costs. Hyundai and Chevrolet take differing approaches to standing behind their electric models long-term.
Hyundai offers outstanding coverage on new vehicles, including the Kona Electric.Its 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty leads the mainstream industry. Add in 5 year/60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper protection and complimentary maintenance for 3 years. Extended warranties further guarantee costs stay fixed.
The Chevy Bolt EV gets a modest 3 year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper and 8 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. No free maintenance either. While generally reliable, Chevrolet makes you pay out of pocket sooner as the original factory coverage expires. Extended plans available at extra charge.
Factoring in stronger original and extended warranty terms, the Kona Electric carries lower risk of unexpected repair bills down the line. Hyundai‘s lengthy coverage provides reassuring peace of mind to EV owners.
Winner: Hyundai Kona Electric
Safety Tech: Kona EV Wins Again
Safety is paramount with electrified high-voltage components and hefty battery packs onboard. Let‘s investigate how these electric models deliver collision prevention technologies and protect occupants.
In crash testing by the NHTSA, both aces their evaluations. The Bolt EV and Kona Electric each achieve the top 5-star overall safety rating. Sub-scores of 5 stars apiece for frontal, side and rollover protection indicate robust structural designs.
For collision avoidance, Hyundai sets the bar higher. Every Kona Electric includes automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert and lane keeping assistance at no charge. Stepping up to the SEL trim adds adaptive cruise control, rear occupant alert and safe exit assist to further emphasize mishap avoidance.
The base Bolt EV surprisingly skips several of these essential aids. Shoppers must add a $495 Driver Confidence package to achieve similar protection as found standard on the Hyundai. Even after checking that option box, there‘s still no safe exit alert.
The electric small crossover regarded among today‘s safest affordable EVs? Make way for the Hyundai Kona Electric and its bounty of standard advanced steering and braking tech.
Winner: Hyundai Kona Electric
Which Is Best For Different Buyers?
With thorough analysis complete, can we declare one model the definitive champ? Tallying up key category wins reveals advantages held by each contender that appeal to unique EV shopper priorities.
Budget-Focused Shoppers: Chevy Bolt
The value-leading Bolt EV wins on price and charging availability. Its sub-$20k effective cost with federal tax credit secures big appeal among the budget conscious. Add faster access to public DC fast charging on road trips thanks to high network compatibility.
Tech Lovers: Hyundai Kona
Latest touchscreens, wireless connectivity and every major driving aid equip the forward-thinking Kona Electric to satisfy the most tech-hungry drivers. Standard safety assists also set it apart with comprehensive protection included.
Families: Kona Again
The extra rear seat and cargo room gives the Kona EV an edge for families or carpoolers needing to haul kids, pets and all their gear. Teens will also appreciate the Hyundai‘s edgier modern styling cues over the Bolt‘s conservative vibe.
Road Trippers: Toss Up
Range, ride quality and charging speeds are too similar to declare a confident favorite. The Kona rates more efficient with higher MPGe, while the Bolt sees fewer limited charging network compatibility issues. Determine likely charging behaviors and pick the model that best fits anticipated travel routines.
The Verdict: Hyundai Kona Electric Wins
When evaluating well-rounded electric vehicles balancing performance, practicality and value across ownership factors, the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric emerges as the stronger EV compared to the aging Chevy Bolt.
For a compact crossover shape with ample room, the latest tech features and a robust warranty behind it, the Kona EV hits the sweet spot. All trims extend driving range into the 250+ mile bracket for confident daily commutes and road trips. Peppy, nimble driving dynamics add to the fun without compromising efficiency and range.
A $7,500 federal tax credit and home charging focus do make the Bolt EV alluring purely from a budget standpoint. And its sleek hatchback form slides through the air slightly more smoothly. But weaker warranty coverage, inconsistent safety feature availability between trims, and limited public charging network compatibility dim the Chevy‘s outlook against well-rounded alternatives like the Kona.
Drivers aiming to maximize ownership satisfaction in an affordable electric runabout find their match with the feature-packed, futuristic Hyundai Kona Electric. Despite a higher sticker price, its balance of cutting-edge tech with everyday usability shine brightest among entry-level 200+ mile EVs. The Kona EV sets the bar other automakers must target when engineering small electric crossovers.
